Cautious

Your blind back lacks familiarity. Beside me you sit, chest rising, as if you were real. Your hand outstretched in expectation, mine carefully curled in. Now a sudden squeeze, so rapid a grasp. My pale heartbeat pounding on edge, as if your bending breath could tip it over. I see your once-far-away face afresh, each line intertwined with the plastic past. Your mask is sloughing off the dirt of hurt. Cautiously, I see an allusion of a new you. Who will I begin to become as I timidly take in your refreshing reflection? Will you stay long enough for me to someday soak up the luster of uncovered love? 9-13-2023